Abstract

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a slowly destructive process that may be influenced by a nutritional
mineral balance in the body.

Methods

This small, double blind, placebo controlled pilot study investigated the impact of
treatment with a natural multi-mineral supplement from seaweed (Aquamin) on 6 minute
walking distance (6 MWD), range of motion (ROM), and pain and joint mobility measured
by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index in subjects
with moderate to severe OA of the knee during gradual withdrawal of non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that were being used daily for pain management. Subjects
(n = 29) with moderate to severe OA of the knee were randomised to receive either
Aquamin (2400 mg/d) or Placebo for up to 12 weeks.

Results

Of the 29 subjects initially randomized, only 22 subjects proceeded to treatment due
to 7 subjects not meeting study selection criteria at baseline. Fourteen subjects
completed the study and an ITT analysis (n = 22) of the data showed no significant
differences in WOMAC scores however, the data did reveal significant improvements
in passive and active extension ROM (0.83° ± 1.54 vs. -1.54° ± 2.43; difference, 5.2°
± 2.2, p = 0.028) and 6 MWD (150 ± 48 ft vs. 12.5 ± 31.5 ft; difference, 136 ± 57
ft, p = 0.03) in the Aquamin group compared to the placebo group; respectively, following
a 50% reduction in NSAID use. The treatments were well tolerated and the adverse event
profiles were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion

This small preliminary study suggests Aquamin may increase range of motion and walking
distances in subjects with OA of the knee and may allow partial withdrawal of NSAIDs
over 12 weeks of treatment. Additional research is needed to confirm these preliminary
observations.